For nearly a year I handwrote prayers to chosen ancestors, which I burned alone or in community on new and full moons. The ashes of these prayers were incorporated into reverential drawings of my ancestors, made with charcoal, pastel, and thread on Korean mulberry paper (한지 hanji). The portraits—themselves treated with fire—formed the backdrop for over 400 communal manifestations collected on-site and online. Hand-treated ritualistic objects, atmospheric lighting, and an immersive soundscape further transformed the space.
10’ w x 10’ d x 10’ h
Fire, manifestation ashes, Korean ramie thread (한산모시 hansan mosi), embroidery floss, pastel, and charcoal on Korean mulberry paper (한지 hanji); vintage Hmong indigo-dyed batik fabric; replica French Indochina coins; cotton jersey fabric; foraged Virginia creeper; faux 5 mm pearls; foraged protection branch (ntxoo); fresh flowers; found objects; speakers (sound; 18:51 min.); and other materials.
Installed at the Rhode Island School of Design Grad Show, May 2025.